Decatur’s Social Hotspot
Ask any young professional in Decatur where their favorite hangout or place to eat is, and undoubtedly, 609 Social would be at the top of the list. From the beautifully restored historic building to innovative cuisine and signature cocktails, 609 Social offers a vibrant community atmosphere to meet friends or to make new ones.
A Chef with Worldly Experience
Michael Locascio was born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama. From a young age, he knew he was destined for the culinary world. Working at his father’s store, he experienced food buying and selling, seasonality, and unique dishes. He was hooked.
In his 41 years in the food industry, he has worked all over the United States and overseas in France, Italy, and Sweden.
Every kitchen he worked in has shaped what he brings to 609 Social. Large restaurants in New York, a small town in Italy, all play a part. “You pull a little piece of all of it,” Locascio explained.
Ode to the First Italian-Owned Store in Birmingham
Michael is not the first Locascio to have a fresh market in Alabama. The market at 609 Social has Michael’s father to thank for the inspiration. And his father took over the business from his father and his father’s father before him. In fact, the Locascios operated the first Italian-Owned market in Birmingham, specializing in fresh seafood, meat, fruits, and vegetables.
Locascio would wake up at four in the morning to visit all the farmers’ markets in Birmingham with his father, gathering the freshest, locally sourced products for the store.
Locascio still uses vendors his father knew, although he is known as “Little Locascio” on that scene.
Farm to Table
Ordering fish off the menu? Your fish will come straight from the market. Every item in the market is carefully curated, used in the kitchen, and available for purchase – local honey, farm fresh eggs, wine, condiments, and more.
The menu is inspired by the season and based on the proteins available. “It’s driven by what the land and the sea provide for us,” said Locascio. You will not find a freezer or a microwave at 609 Social – just one of the many things that make 609 special.
